The Andes in the Heart of Colombia: Trekking Options in Los Nevados National Park
- Michael Gold
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
The Andes in the heart of Colombia are a place of magic: volcanic peaks, mystical lagoons, and the unique páramo ecosystem make Los Nevados National Park a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Together with our experienced local mountain partner, Chaska Tours offers a variety of multi-day trekking programs here — each one an intense and unique nature experience.
Here, we present the most beautiful routes in detail:
Travesía del Otún (2 Days)
From Laguna del Otún to El Cedral
This route leads you along the Río Otún, from the famous Laguna del Otún down through the colorful páramo area "El Edén" into the cloud forests around El Cedral. Perfect for those seeking a compact adventure with rich landscapes.
Itinerary:
Day:
Early morning transfer from Manizales to Potosí
Trek to Finca El Jordán (approx. 18 km)
Overnight in a traditional highland finca
Day:
Hike through the cloud forest to El Cedral (approx. 12 km)
Transfer to Pereira
Altitude range: 4000 m ➝ 2100 m Total distance: 29.6 km Accommodation: Rustic mountain lodge (simple, authentic)
Travesía de los Páramos (3 Days)
Panoramas between Volcanoes and Wax Palms
This spectacular route takes you through the central part of the national park. Highlights include views of the snow-capped Nevado del Ruiz and Nevado Santa Isabel, the mystical Laguna del Otún, and the descent into the iconic Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms.
Itinerary:
Day:
Transfer from Manizales to Potosí / Hike to Finca El Berlín (18.6 km)
Day:
Continue to Finca La Argentina (8.8 km)
Day:
Descent to Cocora (13 km) + transfer to Salento
Altitude range: 4250 m ➝ 2410 m
Total distance: 40.4 km
Accommodation: Simple highland fincas
Highlights: Volcano views & wax palm landscapesn
Paramillo del Quindío (3 Days)
To the Yellow Peak of the Volcanic Paramillo
For more ambitious trekkers, this route combines physical challenge with stunning scenery. The goal is the yellow summit of Paramillo del Quindío – shaped by mineral deposits and rarely visited.
Itinerary:
Day:
Transfer from Manizales to Potosí
Hike to Finca El Berlín (19.6 km)
Day:
Ascent over the Paramillo (4610 m) to La Argentina (20 km)
Day:
Descent to Cocora (13 km) + transfer to Salento
Maximum altitude: 4610 m
Total distance: 47.6 km
Accommodation: Finca & mountain huts
Ascenso a la Laguna del Otún (5 Days)
From Cloud Forest to Thermal Comfort
This route is a true nature adventure with a touch of comfort at the end. From tropical cloud forest, you’ll hike and sleep in fincas and tents on the way to Laguna del Otún. The final reward: a relaxing soak in the thermal springs of Hacienda La Quinta.
Itinerary:
Day:
Transfer from Pereira to El Cedral
Hike to Refugio La Pastora
Day:
Continue to Finca El Berlín (10 km)
Day:
Hike to Laguna del Otún (10.1 km)
Day:
Descent to Potosí (11.4 km), transfer to the hacienda
Day:
Breakfast & transfer to Manizales
Altitude range: 2100 m – 4140 m
Total distance: 37.5 km
Accommodation: Tent, finca & hotel
Highlight: Hot springs & comfort to finish
What’s typically included in our trekking tours?
We focus on safety, quality, and a worry-free experience. That’s why our programs include:
All transfers as per itinerary
Accommodation in fincas, mountain lodges or tents
Full board (breakfast, packed lunch, warm dinner)
Professional, certified mountain guides
Trekking poles
Emergency equipment (oxygen, AED, GPS)
National Park entry fees
Travel accident insurance
Great vibes & genuine hospitality!
Want it tailor-made? Absolutely!
At Chaska Tours, every tour can be customized. Whether you’d like to spend more time at the lagoon, add an extra summit, or are traveling as a family – we’ll design your trekking experience according to your rhythm and wishes.
Ready for your high-altitude adventure in the heart of Colombia?
Get in touch — we’d love to be part of your journey!
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